But against the Saints, Sterling - who scored nine goals in 33 league games last season - looked up to the challenge, breaking the deadlock with a cool finish and setting up Daniel Sturridge for the winner.

And Houghton believes the 19-year-old, plus the likes of Jordan Henderson and Sturridge, will need to improve if they are to go one better than last season and win the Premier League.

"They’re going to have to compensate for that in other ways. Others are going to have to step up and take more responsibility in that final third to score more goals.

"Certainly we saw that with Sterling yesterday. He showed signs he‘s going to be a real threat. I think he’s going have a fantastic season. He’s got real ability, he’s really settled down now and he’s understanding his position in the side.

"I think he’s going to be there week in, week out, he’s not going to be just a bit part player for them, he’s going to be a main player for them. I think that’s going to be very important for Liverpool."